Senator Angel L. Bolques Jr. congratulates the talented collective known as the West Gyul for their visionary leadership and cultural creativity, which were showcased during this year’s Tart Wars 2025. Their vibrant energy and artistic flair brought the community together to celebrate the Virgin Islands’ identity and flavor.
The senator also highlighted the recent enactment of Act No. 8848 (formerly Bill No. 35-0078), sponsored by Senators Angel Bolques Jr. and Marvin Blyden, which amends Title 1, Chapter 7 of the Virgin Islands Code to officially establish Fish and Fungi as the national dish and Tart as the national dessert of the Virgin Islands. “This act is both cultural and strategic,” said Senator Bolques. “It affirms our heritage while laying the groundwork for culinary tourism and economic development.”
Tart Wars offered a compelling showcase of this potential, with over 8,000 tarts sold and a record-breaking turnout of tart lovers, local vendors, and curious tourists—all in a single day, solidifying the Virgin Islands tart as both a cultural treasure and a promising economic product. “Our tarts are the best in the Caribbean—bar none,” stated Senator Bolques. “We should be preparing to export Virgin Islands tarts to the mainland and beyond. The demand is real, and our product is exceptional.
He further emphasized that building a tart export industry could open doors for entrepreneurship, culinary training, agriculture, and small business growth, all rooted in authentic Virgin Islands traditions. “This isn’t just about desserts, it’s about economic empowerment,” Bolques said. “Tart production can be a job creator, a tourism booster, and a global ambassador of who we are as a people.”From honoring ancestral recipes to inspiring the next generation of culinary talent, Tart Wars proves that food is a powerful vessel for cultural pride and economic opportunity.
“My favorite Tart has always been Guavaberry—it’s originally traditional, deeply rooted, and might not be as trendy as some of the more popular varieties, but it holds a special place in our cultural heritage. That said, I had the honor of judging the specialty tart category this year, which featured exotic flavors like starfruit, soursop, tamarind, cherry, and Mango. I have to admit, Mango has won me over in the specialty section. I’d like to gently and respectfully encourage West Gyul and their team to ensure Mango gets a spot in next year’s line-up. Honestly, I think coconut has become a little too powerful at this point!” (laughs)
I can’t wait for next year’s Tart Wars!”
St. Croix Source
Legislature Corner
